Umbrella Apparatus

ABSTRACT

An umbrella apparatus includes a pole portion, a canopy portion hingedly coupled to the pole portion, the canopy portion having a plurality of support ribs and a plurality of support struts, and at least one lamp module mounted to the canopy portion, each lamp module having a plurality of light emitting diodes, each light emitting diode being aimed in a selected fixed direction, at least one of the light emitting diodes being aimed in a direction that is not normal to the support rib to which the lamp module is mounted.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/650,537, filed 28 Aug. 2003, titled “Umbrella Apparatus,” which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/068,424, filed 7 Feb. 2002,titled “Umbrella Apparatus,” which issued on 2 Sep. 2003 under U.S. Pat.No. 6,612,713, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 60/267,018, filed 7 Feb. 2001, titled “Lighted Patio UmbrellaApparatus,” and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/335,933, filed 2Nov. 2001, titled “Outdoor Lighting Systems with Cold Cathode Tubes.”These applications are incorporated herein by reference for allpurposes.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to patio umbrellas andspecifically to improved patio umbrellas with integral lighting systemsand other modular electronic systems and components.

2. Description of Related Art

There has been a recent increase in the interest in entertaining in alawn and garden environment. Patio furniture is quite popular and usefulfor outdoor entertaining, especially in portions of the country thathave warmer climates. However, the sun often presents an impediment tosuch outdoor entertaining. Consequently, sales have increased forrelatively large patio and table umbrellas for use in shielding orshading table areas and people sitting around the tables from directexposure to the sunlight. Given the relatively high degree of interestin patio umbrellas, it is likely that improved umbrellas, or umbrellaswith enhanced functions, will be well received in the marketplace.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary and sectional view of the preferred embodimentof the lighted umbrella with motorized opening and closing systemaccording to the present invention.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are pictorial, fragmentary, and section views of analternate embodiment of the present invention which is directed to alighted umbrella with a stand and a single battery and removable basecover.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are pictorial, fragmentary, and partial sectionviews of another alternate embodiment of the present invention which isdirected to a lighted umbrella with a stand, charger, batteries, andremovable battery cover.

FIG. 4A is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with recessed lighting.

FIG. 4B is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with integral misting system.

FIG. 4C is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with an integral fan system.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram representation of the motorized opening andclosing system of the umbrella of FIG. 1 and of the other embodiments ofthe umbrella of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a block diagram representation of an alternate embodiment ofthe motorized opening and closing system of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention which is directed to a lighted umbrella with atop-mounted power unit and a cold cathode tube lighting system.

FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention which is directed to an umbrella with a top-mountedpower unit and an electric fan cooling system.

FIG. 8 is a simplified view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention which is directed to an umbrella with a top-mounted power unitand a mist producing cooling system.

FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic of an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention that is directed to an umbrella with a top-mountedpower unit and a motorized opening and closing system.

FIG. 10 is a schematic of one broad implementation of the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram representation of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a simplified side view of a pair of lamp modules installed ona rib member of an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 12B is a simplified side view of a pair of lamp modules installedon a rib member of an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 12C is a simplified side view of a pair of lamp modules installedon a rib member of an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 13 is a simplified side view of a pair of lamp modules installed ona rib member of an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 14 is a partially cross-sectioned view of a pivotable lamp moduleinstalled on a rib member of an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 15 is a side view of a battery module installed on a pole of anumbrella apparatus, the battery module being shown in a closedconfiguration.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 14, the battery modulebeing shown in an open configuration.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 14, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on a lower portion of the batterymodule.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 14, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on upper and lower portions of thebattery module.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a battery module installed on an upper portionof a crank case on a pole of an umbrella apparatus, the battery modulebeing shown in a closed configuration.

FIG. 20 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 19, the battery modulebeing shown in an open configuration.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 19, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on a lower portion of the crank case.

FIG. 22 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 19, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on an upper portion of the batterymodule.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 19, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on an upper of the battery module and ona lower portion of the crank case.

FIG. 24 is a side view of a battery module installed on a lower portionof a crank case on a pole of an umbrella apparatus, the battery modulebeing shown in an open configuration.

FIG. 25 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 24, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on an upper portion of the crank case.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 24, an optional lightingsystem and lens being installed on an upper of the crank case and on alower portion of the battery module.

FIG. 27 is an oblique view of an alternative embodiment of a batterymodule for an umbrella apparatus, the battery module installed on a poleof an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 28 is an oblique view of the assembly of FIG. 27, a clamshell coverof the battery module being shown removed.

FIG. 29 is an oblique view of an alternative embodiment of a batterymodule for an umbrella apparatus, the battery module installed on a poleof an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 30 is an oblique view of the assembly of FIG. 29, a clamshell coverof the battery module being shown removed.

FIG. 31 is an oblique view of an alternative embodiment of a batterymodule for an umbrella apparatus, the battery module installed on a poleof an umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 32 is an oblique view of the assembly of FIG. 31, a clamshell coverof the battery module being shown removed.

FIG. 33 is an oblique view of an alternative embodiment of a batterymodule for an umbrella apparatus, the battery module installed on a poleof an umbrella apparatus, and a clamshell cover of the battery modulebeing shown removed.

FIG. 34 is an oblique view of an alternative embodiment of a batterymodule for an umbrella apparatus, the battery module installed on a poleof an umbrella apparatus, and a clamshell cover of the battery modulebeing shown removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to FIG. 1 in the drawings, one embodiment of an umbrellaapparatus according to the present invention is illustrated. Umbrellaapparatus 11 includes an umbrella portion 13 and a hollow tubular poleportion 15. Pole portion 15 is coupled to and supports umbrella portion13. Umbrella portion 13 is preferably retractable and may be movedbetween a raised, or expanded open position, which is shown; and alowered, or retracted, closed position in which umbrella portion iscollapsed down about pole portion 15, as is conventional. A flexiblecanopy 17 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 15. Canopy 17 issupported by a plurality of rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Rib members19, 21, 23, and 25 are preferably hingedly coupled to pole portion 15 atan upper portion of pole portion 15. An integral lighting system 26 iscarried by at least one of rib members 19, 21, 23, or 25. Lightingsystem 26 provides high intensity light to umbrella apparatus 11 and thesurrounding area. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, lighting system 26preferably utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be described ingreater detail herein.

Umbrella apparatus 11 may include a base member adapted to receive poleportion 15 and to support umbrella apparatus 11 in a generally uprightposition. Although not shown in the embodiment FIG. 1, other embodimentsof the present invention depict a variety of conventional and novel basemembers, any of which may be utilized with the embodiment of FIG. 1. Itshould be understood that in all of the embodiments of the presentinvention discussed herein, umbrella apparatus 11 may be used withlittle or no base member whatsoever, provided there is a table or someother support structure, including the ground, which may be adapted toreceive pole portion 15. For example, many patio tables are designedwith central apertures to receive, support, and stabilize relativelylarge umbrellas. In some cases, the patio tables eliminate the need fora base member all together.

In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention,light system 26 includes a plurality of light strands 27, 29, 31, and 33attached to rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Each light strand 27, 29,31, and 33 includes electrical wiring 39 which conductively connects aplurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbs together for providingthe high intensity light under canopy 17 and in the area surroundingumbrella apparatus 11. A wiring ring 37 secures and locates electricalwiring 39 of light strands 27, 29, 31, and 33, so that electrical wiring39 may be passed through the hollow interior of pole portion 15 to apower source, as will be described in detail below.

Umbrella apparatus 11 includes an optional opening and closing system 40that aids in expanding umbrella portion 13 into the open condition andretracting umbrella portion 13 into the closed condition. Opening andclosing system 40 includes a cable system 41, a gear and pulley system43 housed in a crank case 44, and a manual crank 45. Crank case 44 ispreferably located on pole portion 15 such that crank case 44 isaccessible when umbrella portion 13 is in the fully retracted positionagainst pole portion 15. Cable system 41 is coupled between rib members19, 21, 23, and 25 and gear and pulley system 43, and is preferablydisposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 15. Manual crank 45is coupled to gear and pulley system 43 so as to allow manual openingand closing of umbrella portion 13.

Opening and closing system 40 may be automated by the inclusion of anelectric screw driver motor 49, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 47. Motor49 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 15and is coupled to gear and pulley system 43. Operational switches 47 arepreferably carried by crank case 44, and include one or more switchesfor controlling the operation of motor 49. With the inclusion of motor49, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 13 simply by pressingthe appropriate operational switch 47. This feature is particularlyadvantageous when used with large umbrellas which may be relativelyheavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lacks sufficient strengthto expand or retract umbrella portion 13.

Umbrella apparatus 11 includes a power system 50 having a power source55. In this embodiment, power source 55 is preferably disposed in thehollow interior of pole portion 15 at a lower extremity and comprisesone or more rechargeable batteries 55 a. A releasable end cap 57 havingintegral ground connectors is provided at the lowermost portion of poleportion 15 to complete the electrical circuit of power system 50 and toallow access to rechargeable batteries 55 a, as rechargeable batteries55 a may have to be periodically replaced. Power system 50 provideselectrical power to lighting system 26 and opening and closing system40. An external power system charger 51 is electrically coupled to powersystem 50 to aid in repeatedly charging rechargeable batteries 55 a. Asis shown in FIG. 1, an external adapter 60 may be provided. Externaladapter 60 includes a relatively small plug 59 that is adapted to beconductively received by external power system charger 51, an extensioncord 61, an electrical transformer 63, and terminals 65 that allowtransformer 63 to be plugged into a conventional AC wall outlet. Thisallows power system charger 51 to receive power directly from aconventional AC wall outlet in order to recharge rechargeable batteries55 a.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, analternative power system charger 62 may be provided. Alternate powersystem charger 62 includes at least one solar cell 35 carried by anupper cap portion 64. Solar cells 35 are conductively coupled to powersystem charger 51 via wires (not shown) that pass through the hollowinterior of pole portion 15, thereby allowing solar cells 35 to providean electrical charge to recharge rechargeable batteries 55 a, providedsunlight falls upon solar cells 35. Because solar cells 35 providecontinuous recharging throughout the daylight hours, the amount andfrequency of charging power system 50 with external power system charger60 may be minimized. It is important to note that locating alternatepower system charger 62 atop umbrella portion 13 is unique andadvantageous, particularly when alternate power system charger 62includes solar cells 35 or other types of solar energy collectors. Suchlocation limits the visibility of alternate power system charger 62 andensures that solar energy collection is maximized.

The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 is advantageous over the prior art inthat it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrella apparatus 11 islighted by lighting system 26 which does not require continuous accessto a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing high intensity light.This allows umbrella apparatus 11 to be placed in a relatively remotelawn or garden locations that are away from, or substantially removedfrom, conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours, solar cells35 provide a continuous trickle charge to recharge rechargeablebatteries 55 a, thereby reducing the need for and frequency of use ofexternal power system charger 60. However, when an electrical charge isneeded, external power system charger 60 may be utilized to directlycharge power system charger 51. Of course, a conventional extension cordmay be used, thereby eliminating the need to move umbrella apparatus 11from its remote location to a location near an AC power outlet.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2C in the drawings, another embodiment of thepresent invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, an umbrellaapparatus 111 includes an umbrella portion 113, a pole portion 115, astand portion 118, and a base portion 120 adapted to house arechargeable power system 151. Umbrella apparatus 11 includes a lightingsystem 126 and may include a motorized opening and closing system 140.Umbrella portion 113 is preferably retractable and may be moved betweena raised, or expanded open position, which is shown; and a lowered, orretracted, closed position in which umbrella portion is collapsed downabout pole portion 115, as is conventional. A flexible canopy 117 isattached to and covers umbrella portion 115. Canopy 117 is supported bya plurality of rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125. Rib members 119, 121,123, and 125 are preferably hingedly coupled to pole portion 115 at anupper portion of pole portion 115. An integral lighting system 126 iscarried by at least one of rib members 119, 121, 123, or 125. Lightingsystem 126 provides high intensity light to umbrella apparatus 111 andthe surrounding area. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C, lighting system126 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be described ingreater detail herein.

Lighting system 126 includes a plurality of light strands 127, 129,131,and 133 attached to rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125. Each lightstrand 127, 129, 131, and 133 includes electrical wiring 139 whichconductively couples a plurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbstogether for providing the high intensity light under canopy 117 and inthe area surrounding umbrella apparatus 111. A wiring ring 137 securesand locates electrical wiring 139 of light strands 127,129, 131, and133, so that electrical wiring 139 may be passed through the hollowinterior of pole portion 115 to a power source, as will be described indetail below.

Umbrella apparatus 111 includes an optional opening and closing system140 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 113 into the open conditionand retracting umbrella portion 113 into the closed condition. Openingand closing system 140 includes a cable system 141, a gear and pulleysystem 143 housed in a crank case 144, and a manual crank 145. Crankcase 144 is preferably located on pole portion 115 such that crank case144 is accessible when umbrella portion 113 is in the fully retractedposition against pole portion 115. Cable system 141 is coupled betweenrib members 119, 121, 123, and 125 and gear and pulley system 143, andis preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 115.Manual crank 145 is coupled to gear and pulley system 143 so as to allowmanual opening and closing of umbrella portion 113.

Opening and closing system 140 may be automated by the inclusion of anelectric screw driver motor 149, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 147. Motor149 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion115 and is coupled to gear and pulley system 143. Operational switches147 are preferably carried by crank case 144, and include one or moreswitches for controlling the operation of motor 149. With the inclusionof motor 149, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 113 simplyby pressing the appropriate operational switch 147. This feature isparticularly advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may berelatively heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lackssufficient strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 113.

Umbrella apparatus 111 includes a power system 150 having a power source155. In this embodiment, power source 155 is preferably adapted to beconductively coupled to base portion 120 and comprises a rechargeablebattery pack 155 a, preferably an 18-Volt rechargeable battery pack.Battery pack 155 a is preferably the type of rechargeable battery thatis utilized with most modern cordless power tools, such as drills, saws,and sanders. Battery pack 155 a is adapted to be repeatedly recharged byplugging battery pack 155 a into a conventional charger (not shown) thatis plugged into a conventional AC power outlet. Power system 150provides electrical power to lighting system 126 and opening and closingsystem 140.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, analternative power system charger 162 may be provided. Alternate powersystem charger 162 includes at least one solar cell 135 carried by anupper cap portion 164. Solar cells 135 are conductively coupled to powersystem 150 via wires (not shown) that pass through the hollow interiorof pole portion 115, thereby allowing solar cells 135 to provide anelectrical charge to recharge rechargeable battery pack 155 a, providedsunlight falls upon solar cells 135. Because solar cells. 135 providecontinuous recharging throughout the daylight hours, the frequency withwhich battery pack 155 a must be replaced or recharged may be minimized.It is important to note that locating alternate power system charger 162atop umbrella portion 113 is unique and advantageous, particularly whenalternate power system charger 162 includes solar cells 135 or othertypes of solar energy collectors. Such location limits the visibility ofalternate power system charger 162 and ensures that solar energycollection is maximized.

Stand portion 118 includes an upright shaft portion 170 having a centralaperture 172 that is adapted to receive the pole portion 115 of umbrellaapparatus 111. A plurality of screw clamps 174 and 176 are provided tosecure pole portion 115 within shaft portion 170. A bottom portion 146is provided to stabilize umbrella apparatus 111 while umbrella apparatus111 is installed within stand portion 118.

Base portion 120 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve 156, aremovable cover 160, and a receiver 168. Sleeve 156 is configured toslip over the exterior of shaft portion 170, and includes a longitudinalslot 158 that allows access to screw clamps 174 and 176 when sleeve 156is placed over shaft portion 170. Slot 158 also allows access to aconnector 166 disposed in the lower portion of pole portion 115 whensleeve 156 is placed over shaft portion 170. Connector 166 isconductively coupled to the wires from alternate power system charger162 and solar cells 135. Cover 160 is preferably concave in shape,thereby defining an interior space which may be used to house theelectronics (not shown) of power system 150. Cover 160 may include oneor more seams 163 that allow access to the interior space defined bycover 160. Receiver 168 releasably receives battery pack 155 a. A wire152 and plug 154 conductively couple battery pack 155 a to connector166, thereby providing an electrical circuit between rechargeablebattery pack 155 a and light strands 119, 121,123, and 125 of lightingsystem 126.

The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C is advantageous over the priorart in that it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrella apparatus111 is lighted by lighting system 126 which does not require continuousaccess to a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing high intensitylight. This allows umbrella apparatus 111 to be placed in a relativelyremote lawn or garden locations that are away from, or substantiallyremoved from, conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours,solar cells 135 provide a continuous trickle charge to rechargerechargeable battery pack 155 a, thereby reducing the frequency withwhich battery pack 155 a must be replaced or recharged. Additionally,this embodiment is advantageous over the prior art in that conventionalrechargeable battery packs, which are commonly used with cordless powertools, may be utilized. If battery pack 155 a is insufficiently chargedilluminate light strands 119, 121, 123, and 125 of light system 126, theuser may simply replace battery pack 155 a with another fully chargedbattery pack 155 a. In this manner, lighting system 126 of umbrellaapparatus 111 may be energized conveniently, even though umbrellaapparatus 111 may be located extremely remotely from an AC power outlet,such as in a garden patio, or on a boat dock. In this embodiment, thereis no need to use extension cords to charge an alternate power systemcharger.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C in the drawings, another embodiment of thepresent invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, an umbrellaapparatus 211 includes an umbrella portion 213, a pole portion 215, astand portion 218, and a base portion 220 adapted to house arechargeable power system 251. Umbrella apparatus 211 includes alighting system 226 and may include a motorized opening and closingsystem 240. Umbrella portion 213 is preferably retractable and may bemoved between a raised, or expanded open position, which is shown; and alowered, or retracted, closed position in which umbrella portion iscollapsed down about pole portion 215, as is conventional. A flexiblecanopy 217 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 215. Canopy 217 issupported by a plurality of rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225. Ribmembers 219, 221, 223, and 225 are preferably hingedly coupled to poleportion 215 at an upper portion of pole portion 215. An integrallighting system 226 is carried by at least one of rib members 219, 221,223, or 225. Lighting system 226 provides high intensity light toumbrella apparatus 211 and the surrounding area. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 3A-3C, lighting system 226 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tubewhich will be described in greater detail herein.

Lighting system 226 includes a plurality of light strands 227, 229, 231,and 233 attached to rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225. Each lightstrand 227, 229, 231, and 233 includes electrical wiring 239 whichconductively couples a plurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbstogether for providing the high intensity light under canopy 217 and inthe area surrounding umbrella apparatus 211. A wiring ring 237 securesand locates electrical wiring 239 of light strands 227, 229, 231, and233, so that electrical wiring 239 may be passed through the hollowinterior of pole portion 215 to a power source, as will be described indetail below.

Umbrella apparatus 211 includes an optional opening and closing system240 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 213 into the open conditionand retracting umbrella portion 213 into the closed condition. Openingand closing system 240 includes a cable system 241, a gear and pulleysystem 243 housed in a crank case 244, and a manual crank 245. Crankcase 244 is preferably located on pole portion 215 such that crank case244 is accessible when umbrella portion 213 is in the fully retractedposition against pole portion 215. Cable system 241 is coupled betweenrib members 219, 221, 223, and 225 and gear and pulley system 243, andis preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 215.Manual crank 245 is coupled to gear and pulley system 243 so as to allowmanual opening and closing of umbrella portion 213.

Opening and closing system 240 may be automated by the inclusion of anelectric screw driver motor 249, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 247. Motor249 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion215 and is coupled to gear and pulley system 243. Operational switches247 are preferably carried by crank case 244, and include one or moreswitches for controlling the operation of motor 249. With the inclusionof motor 249, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 213 simplyby pressing the appropriate operational switch 247. This feature isparticularly advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may berelatively heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lackssufficient strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 213.

Umbrella apparatus 211 includes a power system 250 having a rechargeablepower source 255. In this embodiment, power source 255 is preferablyadapted to be conductively coupled to and hosed within base portion 220and comprises a bundle of rechargeable batteries 255 a. Power system 250provides electrical power to lighting system 226 and opening and closingsystem 240. An external power system charger and transformer 251 areelectrically coupled to power system 250 to aid in repeatedly chargingrechargeable batteries 255 a. An extension cord 261 having terminals 265allow external power system charger and transformer 251 to be pluggedinto a conventional AC wall outlet. This allows external power systemcharger and transformer 251 to receive power directly from aconventional AC wall outlet in order to recharge rechargeable batteries255 a.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, analternative power system charger 262 may be provided. Alternate powersystem charger 262 includes at least one solar cell 235 carried by anupper cap portion 264. Solar cells 235 are conductively coupled to powersystem 250 via wires (not shown) that pass through the hollow interiorof pole portion 215, thereby allowing solar cells 235 to provide anelectrical charge to recharge rechargeable batteries 255 a, providedsunlight falls upon solar cells 235. Because solar cells 235 providecontinuous recharging throughout the daylight hours, the frequency withwhich batteries 255 a must be replaced or recharged may be minimized. Itis important to note that locating alternate power system charger 262atop umbrella portion 213 is unique and advantageous, particularly whenalternate power system charger 262 includes solar cells 235 or othertypes of solar energy collectors. Such location limits the visibility ofalternate power system charger 262 and ensures that solar energycollection is maximized.

Stand portion 218 includes an upright shaft portion 270 having a centralaperture 272 that is adapted to receive pole portion 215 of umbrellaapparatus 211. A plurality of screw clamps 274 and 276 are provided tosecure pole portion 215 within shaft portion 270. A bottom portion 246is provided to stabilize umbrella apparatus 211 while umbrella apparatus211 is installed within stand portion 218.

Base portion 220 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve 256, aremovable cover 260, and recessed portions 280 and 282. Sleeve 256 isconfigured to slip over the exterior of shaft portion 270, and includesa longitudinal slot 258 that allows access to screw clamps 274 and 276when sleeve 256 is placed over shaft portion 270. Slot 258 also allowsaccess to a connector 266 disposed in the lower portion of pole portion215 when sleeve 256 is placed over shaft portion 270. Connector 266 isconductively coupled to the wires from alternate power system charger262 and solar cells 235. Cover 260 is preferably concave in shape,thereby defining an interior space which may be used to house theelectronics (not shown) of power system 250. Cover 260 may include oneor more seams 263 that allow access to the interior space defined bycover 260. Recessed portion 280 releasably receives batteries 255 a, andrecessed porti9n 282 releasably receives external power system charger251. A wire 252 and plug 254 conductively couple batteries 255 a toconnector 266, thereby providing an electrical circuit betweenrechargeable batteries 255 a and light strands 219, 221, 223, and 225 oflighting system 226.

The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A-3C is advantageous over the priorart in that it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrella apparatus211 is lighted by lighting system 226 which does not require continuousaccess to a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing high intensitylight. This allows umbrella apparatus 211 to be placed in a relativelyremote lawn or garden locations that are away from, or substantiallyremoved from, conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours,solar cells 235 provide a continuous trickle charge to rechargerechargeable batteries 255 a, thereby reducing the frequency with whichbatteries 255 a must be replaced or recharged. However, when anelectrical charge is needed, external power system charger 251 may beutilized to directly charge batteries 255 a. Of course, a conventionalextension cord may be used, thereby eliminating the need to moveumbrella apparatus 211 from its remote location to a location near an ACpower outlet.

Referring now to FIG. 4A in the drawings, the preferred embodiment oflighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention isillustrated. In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting elements 307,preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member 301.Rib member 301 is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121,123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225. As is shown, a cavity 303 is formedwithin rib 301. Cavity 303 is adapted to receive and hold light bulb307. A translucent material 305 extends along the entire length of thecavity 303 to protect bulbs 307 from damage and undesirable exposure toweather and other conditions. Translucent material 305 may have a smoothsurface or be textured to accentuate or enhance the light from bulbs307. Although only a single cold cathode tube bulb 307 is illustrated,it should be understood that there may be many bulbs 307 spaced alongthe length of rib member 301 to illuminate the area under umbrellaapparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member 301 includes a wiring channel 309configured to receive a wire 311 that conductively connects all of thebulbs 307 installed in rib member 301, thereby forming an electricalcircuit between bulbs 307 and the rechargeable power source, such aspower sources 50, 150, and 250. In this manner, recessed lighting, whichis carried entirely within rib member 301 and is not otherwise exposedto the elements, is achieved.

Referring now to FIG. 4B in the drawings, an alternate embodiment oflighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention isillustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4A,with the exception that an integral cooling system 410 has been added.In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting elements 307, preferablycold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member 301. Rib member301 is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125,219, 221, 223, and 225. Cooling system 410 comprises a misting meansthat provides a light mist to cool the area under umbrella apparatus 11,111, or 211. A cavity 403 is formed within rib member 401. Cavity 403 isadapted to receive and hold light bulb 407. A translucent material 405extends along the entire length of the cavity 403 to protect bulbs 407from damage and undesirable exposure to weather and other conditions.Translucent material 405 may have a smooth surface or be textured toaccentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 407. Although only a singlecold cathode tube bulb 407 is illustrated, it should be understood thatthere may be many bulbs 407 spaced along the length of rib member 401 toilluminate the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member401 includes a wiring channel 409 configured to receive a wire 411 thatconductively connects all of the bulbs 407 installed in rib member 401,thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 407 and therechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250. Inthis manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely within ribmember 401 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements, is achieved.

A fluid supply channel 421 is provided in order to receive a fluid tighthose which supplies water to a plurality of misting nozzles 425 whichgenerate mist 427 and 480. A fluid discharge channel 423 is provided tocarry a fluid tight hose which carries water from the hose in fluidsupply channel 421 to misting nozzles 425. In this embodiment, umbrellaapparatus should include a small reservoir (not shown) of water or otherwater source, such as an inlet hose, and an electric pump to pressurizeand pump the water through cooling system 410. In this manner, umbrellaapparatus 11, 111, or 211 provides both light and a cooling mist tothose in close proximity.

Referring now to FIG. 4C in the drawings, another embodiment of lightingsystems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention is illustrated. Thisembodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4A, with the exceptionthat a different integral cooling system 510 has been added. In thisembodiment, a plurality of lighting elements 507, preferably coldcathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member 501. Rib member 501is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125, 219,221, 223, and 225. Cooling system 510 comprises a fanning means thatprovides a cool breeze under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Acavity 503 is formed within rib member 501. Cavity 503 is adapted toreceive and hold light bulb 507. A translucent material 505 extendsalong the entire length of the cavity 503 to protect bulbs 507 fromdamage and undesirable exposure to weather and other conditions.Translucent material 505 may have a smooth surface or be textured toaccentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 507. Although only a singlecold cathode tube bulb 507 is illustrated, it should be understood thatthere may be many bulbs 507 spaced along the length of rib member 501 toilluminate the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member501 includes a wiring channel 509 configured to receive a wire 511 thatconductively connects all of the bulbs 507 installed in rib member 501,thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 507 and therechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250. Inthis manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely within ribmember 501 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements, is achieved.

A wiring conduit 520 is provided which routes electrical wiring fromwire 511 to an electric motor 524 carried in a recessed cavity 522.Fanning means 528 and 580, such as fan blades, are carried by rotatingshafts 530 which are connected to motors 524. When energized, motors 524rotate fan blades 528 and 580, thereby providing a cooling breeze underumbrella apparatus 11, 111, and 211. A plurality of fan blade sets 528and 580 may be located at predetermined locations along the length ofrib member 501.

Referring now to FIG. 5A in the drawings, a block diagram representationof the preferred embodiment of opening and closing systems 40, 140, and240 is illustrated. As is shown, a pulley system 600 is coupled throughgears 602 to an electric motor 604. A switch 606 is electricallyconnected between a power supply 608 and electric motor 604. Powersupply 608 is indicative of rechargeable power systems 50, 150, and 250.External power system charger 610 and solar charger 612 are coupled topower supply 608 to recharge the rechargeable battery elements. Externalpower system charger 610 is indicative of external power system chargers51 and 251. Solar charger 612 is indicative of alternate power systemchargers 62, 162, and 262. Mechanical actuation of switch 606 allowscurrent to flow from power supply 608 to electric motor 604. Motor 604works through gears 602 to operate pulley 600, thereby opening andclosing canopy 17, 117, or 217 of umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211,respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 5B in the drawings, another embodiment of theopening and closing systems 40, 140, and 240 of the present invention isillustrated. In this embodiment, a wireless transmitter 708 is utilizedto transmit encoded signals and remotely communicate with a wirelessreceiver 706 that is carried by umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211,preferably near housings 44, 144, and 244. A decoder 704 is provided todecode the encoded signals. As is conventional with such receivers andtransmitters, transmitter 708 and receiver 706 may be adapted to becoded on a particular frequency or coding scheme which enable adedicated transmitter 708 to actuate a particular receiver 706. Adecoder 704 coupled to an electrical switch 702 serves to allow for suchidentification. Switch 702 controls the application of electrical energyfrom a power supply 710 to an electric motor 700. Power supply 710 isindicative of rechargeable power systems 50, 150, and 250. Motor 700 isindicative of motors 49, 149, and 249. In this manner, a motorizedretraction system may be actuated remotely utilizing wirelesstransmitter 708.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-9 in the drawings, the preferred embodiments ofthe umbrella apparatus of the present invention are illustrated. Inthese embodiments, the rechargeable power source and solar rechargingsystem are mounted atop the pole portion of the umbrella apparatus abovethe canopy. One concept which runs throughout the embodiments depictedin FIGS. 6-9 is the utilization of a “power unit.” This concept involvesthe placement of a unitary structure at a defined location relative tothe umbrella. For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 6-9, the powerunit is shown at a top location directly above the umbrella apparatus,and secured to the pole portion with a threaded coupling. FIG. 6 depictsa top-mounted power unit and a cold cathode tube lighting system. FIG. 7depicts a top-mounted power unit with a fanning means cooling system.FIG. 8 depicts a top-mounted power unit with mist producing coolingsystem. FIG. 9 depicts a top-mounted power unit with an automatedopening and closing system.

Although FIGS. 6-9 depict power units with a single electrical system,it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, one could mixand match these electrical subassemblies such that a single power unitprovides electrical power to two or more subassemblies. For example, anumbrella apparatus may include a lighting system and either one or bothof the cooling systems described above. Alternatively, an umbrellaapparatus may include a lighting system, a cooling system, and anautomated opening and closing system as described herein. In thismanner, the umbrella apparatus of the present invention is modular suchthat the different subsystems can be easily mixed and matched.

This modularity allows one to manufacture and sell aftermarket kitswhich can be installed and interchanged by the umbrella owners. Suchkits may include a power unit and one or more of the subsystems, such asa lighting system and/or a cooling system and/or an automated openingand closing system. Because the power unit is relatively self-contained,little interaction is required to attach the power unit to an umbrellaapparatus. Alternatively, this modularity in design facilitates the massmanufacture of umbrellas, allowing the electrical system to bemanufactured by one factory, and the umbrella systems, which do notinclude electrical systems, to be manufactured by a different factory.The parts can then be brought together in an assembly area and assembledtogether.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 6, an umbrella apparatus 701 isillustrated. As is shown, a power unit 725 is provided for connection tothe uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 701. In this embodiment, acold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is provided for connection at adifferent location to umbrella apparatus 701. Power unit 725 includes asolar collector 727 at its uppermost portion. Solar collector 727 ispreferably carried by a top portion 703 of power unit 725. A bottomportion 705 of power unit 725 defines an interior battery compartment707. Additionally, power unit 725 carries a coupling mechanism 729 toallow coupling between power unit 725 and a pole portion 719 of umbrellaapparatus 701, pole portion 719 being adapted at an upper end 711,preferably with threads 713, to releasably receive power unit 725. A topcap 715 hingedly connects pole portion 719 to a canopy 717. Cold cathodetube light subassembly 721 is coupled at a desired location underneathcanopy 717 to provide high intensity light in the area surroundingumbrella apparatus 701. Cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 isconductively coupled to power unit 725 by wiring 709 that passes throughthe hollow interior of pole portion 719. Such light allows users toread, play games, or perform other leisure activities that require arelatively high intensity light. The electrical components of umbrellaapparatus 701 are entirely independent of any household electricalsystem. The power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250,carried by power unit 725 is utilized to energize cold cathode tubelight subassembly 721. During daylight hours, solar energy is collectedby solar panel 727 and is converted and utilized to recharge therechargeable power source which is maintained within battery compartment707.

Cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is described below in moredetail below. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, otherlow power lighting systems may be used instead of cold cathode tubelight sub assembly 721. For example, an LED or fluorescent lightingsubassembly may be utilized instead. LED and fluorescent systemsdesigned for use with solar and low voltage lighting are known in theart. Such alternative lighting sources may be easily used with thepresent system in manners which are recognized by those skilled in theart. Implementation of LED, fluorescent, or other alternate lightsources instead of cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is astraightforward and need not be further described in detail.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 7 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 801 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 825 is providedfor connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 801. Inthis embodiment, a cooling system 821 comprising a fanning means 831 isprovided for connection at a different location to umbrella apparatus801. Power unit 825 includes a solar collector 827 at its uppermostportion. Solar collector 827 is preferably carried by a top portion 803of power unit 825. A bottom portion 805 of power unit 825 defines aninterior battery compartment 807. Additionally, power unit 825 carries acoupling mechanism 829 to allow coupling between power unit 825 and apole portion 819 of umbrella apparatus 801, pole portion 819 beingadapted at an upper end 811, preferably with threads 813, to releasablyreceive power unit 825. A top cap 815 hingedly connects pole portion 819to a canopy 817. Cooling system 821 is coupled at a desired locationunderneath canopy 817 to provide a cooling breeze in the areasurrounding umbrella apparatus 801. Cooling system 821 is conductivelycoupled to power unit 825 by wiring 809 that passes through the hollowinterior of pole portion 819. The electrical components of umbrellaapparatus 801 are entirely independent of any household electricalsystem. The power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250,carried by power unit 825 is utilized to energize cooling system 821.During daylight hours, solar energy is collected by solar panel 827 andis converted and utilized to recharge the rechargeable power sourcewhich is maintained within battery compartment 807.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 8 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 901 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 955 is providedfor connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 901. Inthis embodiment, a cooling system 921 comprising a misting system 931 isprovided for connection at a different location to umbrella apparatus901. Power unit 955 includes a solar collector 957 at its uppermostportion. Solar collector 957 is preferably carried by a top portion 903of power unit 955. A bottom portion 905 of power unit 955 defines aninterior battery compartment 907. Additionally, power unit 955 carries acoupling mechanism 959 to allow coupling between power unit 955 and apole portion 919 of umbrella apparatus 901, pole portion 919 beingadapted at an upper end 911, preferably with threads 913, to releasablyreceive power unit 955. A top cap 915 hingedly connects pole portion 919to a canopy 917. The electrical components of umbrella apparatus 901 areentirely independent of any household electrical system. The powersource, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit955 is utilized to energize cooling system 921. During daylight hours,solar energy is collected by solar panel 957 and is converted andutilized to recharge the rechargeable power source which is maintainedwithin battery compartment 907.

Cooling system 921 is coupled at a desired location underneath canopy917 to provide a cooling mist in the area surrounding umbrella apparatus901. Cooling system 921 is conductively coupled to power unit 955 bywiring 909 that passes through the hollow interior of pole portion 919.Cooling system 921 is a misting system comprising a reservoir 925, orother water source, a pump 927, water feed lines 929, and mist nozzles923. Pump 927 pressurizes and pumps the water from reservoir 925 throughwater feed lines 929 and out of mist nozzles 923, which are located atselected spaced intervals under canopy 917, at a selected flow rate.Reservoir 925 may be a conventional ice cooler, such that the mist ischilled water.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 9 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 1001 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 1055 isutilized to provide electrical power to an automated opening and closingsystem 1050. Power unit 1055 includes a solar collector 1027 at itsuppermost portion. Solar collector 1027 is preferably carried by a topportion 1003 of power unit 1055. A bottom portion 1005 of power unit1055 defines an interior battery compartment 1007. Additionally, powerunit 1055 carries a coupling mechanism 1029 to allow coupling betweenpower unit 1055 and a pole portion 1019 of umbrella apparatus 1001, poleportion 1019 being adapted at an upper end 1011, preferably with threads1013, to releasably receive power unit 1055. A top cap 1015 hingedlyconnects pole portion 1019 to a canopy 1017. The electrical componentsof umbrella apparatus 1001 are entirely independent of any householdelectrical system. Automated opening and closing system 1050 isconductively coupled to power unit 1055 by wiring 1009 that passesthrough the hollow interior of pole portion 1019. The power source, suchas power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit 1055 isutilized to energize automated opening and closing system 1050. Duringdaylight hours, solar energy is collected by solar panel 1027 and isconverted and utilized to recharge the rechargeable power source whichis maintained within battery compartment 1007.

Automated opening and closing system 1050 is carried at the uppermostportion of pole portion 1019. Opening and closing system 1050 includes amotor 1021, a transmission 1023, a line winding shaft 1025, a pulleysystem 1031, and a cable system 1033. These components cooperate to openand close the umbrella in response to the receipt of a command signal.The command signal may be supplied by the actuation of a switch (seeFIGS. 1-3) carried on pole portion 1019, or it may be a wireless signalreceived from a paired transmitter receiver system (see FIG. 5B).

Referring now to FIG. 10 in the drawings, a schematic of the coldcathode tube lighting system of the present invention is illustrated.The invention is to utilize in combination a cold cathode lamp, a powerinverter which supplies alternating current to the cold cathode lamp, arechargeable DC battery pack, and a solar collector. This is depicted insimplified form in FIG. 10. This may be utilized in any outdoorapplication in which there is no easy or convenient access to householdpower. The system is entirely self-contained and does not require anyhousehold power for operation, or charging. As is shown, the coldcathode tube lighting system 3000 includes a cold cathode lamp 3001 thatis supplied with AC power from a power inverter 3007. A DC battery pack3003 includes rechargeable batteries that supply DC current to powerinverter 3007. A solar collector 3005 is provided to recharge thebatteries contained within DC power pack 3003.

A cold cathode tube is a lamp that produces light by the passage of anelectric current through a vapor or gas maintained within a tube. A coldcathode tube does not require any heating above ambient temperature toproduce light. The tube is phosphor coated on its inner surface, andthus may emit various colored light. In most cases, cold cathode tubelamps are low-pressure mercury vapor lamps. Such lamps use a 253.7nanometer ultraviolet emission from mercury vapor excited by anelectrical discharge through the lamp to charge the phosphors maintainedon the wall of the lamp.

The optimum operating temperature for cold cathode tube is approximately40 degrees Celsius, although Applicant believes that these lamps can beproduced in a manner to reliably provide outdoor lighting intemperatures as cold as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. While the cold cathodetube does not require heating, the output of the lamp does vary basedupon the ambient temperature. At room temperature, the initial output ofa lamp is only about seventy percent of its steady state value at 40degrees Celsius. In contrast, its output is only 25 percent when thelamp is started at zero degrees Celsius. Cold starts do requireadditional voltage from the power source to ensure reliable operation.However, the number of lamp “starts” has no adverse effect on the lamp.This is not true for fluorescent lamps, which degrade over time due tothe number of “starts.” Cold cathode tubes may be utilized to supply awhite light output.

In the preferred embodiment, a cold cathode tube manufactured by NanjingLampus Electronics Company, Ltd. is utilized. Specifically, a lamp typeCFL-20 is utilized. This has an inner diameter of 1.5 millimeters. Thetube length is variable, and may be anywhere in the range of 50millimeters to 30 millimeters in overall length. The tube is adapted tooperate on four milliamps of tube current. The tube voltage is in therange of 200 to 750 Volts. The average brightness of this particulartube is 40,000 cd/m2.

Another advantage of cold cathode tubes is that the tubes can be verythin in diameter. For example, in the preferred implementation, the coldcathode tube may be one or two millimeters in diameter. A cold cathodetube can be bent into any shape and can be formed in very long lengths,such as several feet long. Thus, cold cathode tubes provide greaterlight output per foot versus conventional lighting.

Another significant advantage of cold cathode tubes it that they haverelatively long lamp life. It is not unusual to have lamp lives whichare thirty to forty thousand hours of use. In other words, these coldcathode tubes have, for all practical purposes, an infinite life span.

They are low power devices. They do not generate a lot of heat. Theyprovide high lumen output. For these reasons, fewer batteries are neededto drive the cold cathode ray tube, and smaller solar cell panels may beutilized to recharge the batteries. In other words, relatively smallform factors can be achieved because the solar cells, the batteries, andthe bulbs can be relatively small in size.

The present invention can be implemented on a small, medium, or largescale so the solar cell panels and batteries may be moved up in size toeither provide greater light output or to provide for a longer usefullife.

Additionally, the present invention may be considered to satisfy threeseparate and distinct outdoor lighting applications, all of which may beincorporated into the umbrella apparatus of the present invention.

The first application is that of a “special purpose light,” or “tasklight,” such as for security applications. These special purpose lightswould provide very light output, for a relatively short duration. Oneexample would be the utilization of the cold cathode ray tube to provideextremely high light output for a very small area for a very short time,all in response to detection of motion in a particular area. Forexample, a system can be configured to detect motion in a doorway,motion in a yard, motion in a driveway, or the like. The brightness canbe provided which can be far in excess of 40,000 cd/m2. For example,100,000 to 200,000 cd/m2 may be provided for a very small area for avery short duration. For example, the duration may be a few minutes toten minutes.

The second application requires a medium amount of light output, butrequires longer periods of operation or wider areas of coverage. Forexample, the light assembly provided with the umbrella provides arelatively high light output, such as in the range of 20,000 to 100,000cd/m2, in order to allow one to read, play games, operate a computer, ordo needlework under the umbrella. Preferably, the battery pack andassociated solar panel is sufficient to allow the system to operatecontinuously for a time interval in the range of 8-12 hours.Additionally, and preferably, the solar panel should be of the size andoutput which is sufficient to fully recharge the battery pack during thedaylight hours.

A third application requires a lower level of light intensity. A goodexample would be lawn, patio, walkway, or landscape lighting. One doesnot ordinarily expect to be able to read or do intricate work under thistype of lighting. In contrast, all that is expected is that a reasonableamount of light be provided to allow one to walk safely through an area.This type of task may require brightness in the range of 6,000 cd/m2 to60,000 cd/m2.

Referring now to FIG. 11 in the drawings, a block diagram representationof the application of the present invention to a lawn lighting scenariois illustrated. In this scenario, a plurality of solar panels 4001,4003, 4005, and 4007 are connected together in series. Preferably, solarpanels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 are manufactured by Siemens andcomprise mono-crystal solar panels, each providing 1.5 Volts. The totalcurrent for the array of solar panels is about 80 milliamps. The currentfrom solar panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 is passed through a diode4009 and then to a battery pack 4011. Battery pack 4011 includes aplurality of batteries 4013, 4015, and 4017, for example three AAbatteries. In alternative embodiments, as few as two batteries may beused. As is shown, each battery is a 1.2 Volt Nickel Cadmium battery.They collectively provide 700 milliamp hours of power.

The output of DC battery pack 4011 is provided as an input to aninverter 4019. Inverter 4019 receives 4.8 Volts DC in and produces as anoutput of 800 Volts rms AC at 40 Hertz. The total current of the outputis 4-6 milliamps.

This is provided to the cathode of a cold cathode ray tube lamp 4021.The current passes through the vapor maintained within cold cathode raytube lamp 4021 and causes electrons to be stripped from the gas. Theseelectrons collide with the phosphorus coating on the interior surface ofcold cathode ray tube lamp 4021, thereby emitting light.

Referring now to FIG. 12A, lamp modules 5001 are adapted for attachmentto a rib member 5003 of an umbrella apparatus, like umbrella apparatus11, described above, and rib member 5003 is similar or identical to ribmembers 19, 21, 23, and 25 of umbrella apparatus 11. Rib member 5003, asshown, is a hollow tubular structure. Each lamp module 5001 isconductively connected with a wire 5004 to an electrical system foroperation, and each module 5001 comprises multiple lamps 5005, which maybe of any type described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 12A, wires5004 are carried within rib member 5003, though at least a portion ofwires 5004 may alternatively be located outside of rib member 5003.Locating wires 5004 outside of rib member 5003 may be desirable whenretrofitting lamp modules 5001 to an existing umbrella apparatus.

Lamps 5005 are mounted in a housing 5007, which is attached to ribmember 5003 in a fixed orientation, though modules 5001 may be removablyattached. Modules 5001 may by mounted using mechanical fasteners,hook-and-loop fasteners, wire ties, adhesives, or other appropriateforms of attachment. As shown in the figure, lamps 5005 are eachoriented within housing 5007 so as to emit light in the paralleldirections, which are indicated by arrows 5009. Broken line 5011 isperpendicular to the length of rib member 5003, and emission arrows 5009are not parallel with line 5011. In the preferred embodiment, lamps 5005are installed in housing 5007 so that light is emitted from lamps 5005in a generally downward direction when rib members 5003 are in theirfully open position, as shown in the figure. This downward emissionilluminates the area below the canopy of the umbrella apparatus in animproved manner when compared to lamps that emit light only in adirection parallel to line 5011. Lamps 5005 are preferably clusters ofLEDs, and may have a reflective material or refractive lens forproviding intense light emission. In addition, lamps 5005 may be eachhave a selected color, or each lamp 5005 may be configured toselectively emit light of multiple colors. Lamp modules 5001 may then beoperated in a “party” mode, so as to blink or flash colored lights in afestive pattern or sequence.

It should be noted that one or multiple modules 5001 may be mounted onthe same rib member. Also, modules 5001 may alternatively be mounted onsupport struts, on other support structures, or directly to the canopyof the umbrella apparatus, so that lamps 5005 emit light in a generallydownward direction when the umbrella apparatus is opened.

FIG. 12B shows rib member 5003 with a pair of lamp modules 5013installed thereon. Each lamp module 5013 is conductively connected witha wire 5014 to an electrical system for operation, and each module 5013comprises multiple lamps 5015, 5017, 5019, which may be of any typedescribed herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 12B, wires 5014 are carriedoutside of rib member 5003, though at least a portion of wires 5004 mayalternatively be located inside of rib member 5003.

Lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 are mounted in a housing 5021, which is attachedto rib member 5003 in a similar manner as that described for modules5001 above. As shown in the figure, lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 are eachoriented within housing 5021 so as to emit light in at least twodirections, as indicated by arrows 5023, 5025, 5027. Emission arrows5023 and 5027 are not parallel with line 5011, though emission arrow5025 is generally parallel to line 5011. This multi-directional emissionilluminates the area below the canopy of the umbrella apparatus in animproved manner when compared to lamps that emit light only in adirection parallel to line 5011. As described above for lamps 5005,lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 are preferably clusters of LEDs, and may have areflective material or refractive lens for providing intense lightemission. In addition, lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 may be capable of emittingdifferent colors. It should be noted that one or multiple modules 5013may be mounted on a rib member, on a support strut, or directly to thecanopy of the umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 12C shows another embodiment of lamp module 5013, in which lamps5015, 5017, 5019 are movable relative to lamp housing 5021. A pivotmount 5028 is used to pivotally attach each lamp 5015, 5017, 5019 tohousing 5021, allowing a user to alter the direction that each lamp5015, 5017, 5019 emits light. Pivot mount 5028 may be configured, forexample, as a hinge-type pivot to allow for rotation about only oneaxis, such as a horizontal axis perpendicular to the length of ribmember 5003, or as a ball-type pivot to allow for rotation about twoperpendicular horizontal axes. In the figure, lower module 5013 is shownwith lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 adjusted to face in multiple directions,whereas upper module 5013 is shown with lamps 5015, 5017, 5019 allpointed in the same direction. Also, wires 5014 are shown with at leasta portion of one of wires 5014 being carried inside rib member 5003 anda portion of that wire 5014 being carried outside of rib member 5003.

One existing method of installation of lights on umbrellas involvesdrilling holes in a rib member and inserting the LEDs or other lightingelements. Therefore, one advantage to using lamp modules 5001 and 5013are that they eliminate the need to drill holes in rib members or otherstructures to place a lamp module in a selected location.

FIG. 13 shows rib member 5003 with lamp modules 5001, 5013 installedthereon. Each lamp module 5001, 5013 is conductively connected with awire 5004, 5014, respectively, to an electrical system for operation. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 13, lamp modules 5001, 5013 are mounted to a sidewall 5029 of rib member 5003, rather than to a lower surface of member5003, as shown for the embodiment described above. It should be notedthat any of the embodiments may alternatively use the sidewall mountingposition. Wire 5014 is shown being carried outside of rib member 5003,and wire 5004 is shown being carried inside of rib member 5003. As notedfor the embodiments described above, wires 5004, 5014 (or portionsthereof) may be located inside or outside of rib member 5003.

Referring now to FIG. 14, a rib member 5030 is show in a partialcross-sectional side view. Rib member 5030 is a hollow tubular structureformed from walls 5031 that enclose a volume 5033. A rectangular recess5035 is formed in a lower side of rib member 5030, and a lamp module5037 is pivotally mounted therein. Module 5037 is shown as beingconstructed similarly to module 5013 of FIG. 12B, but module 5037 mayalternatively be constructed similarly to module 5001 of FIG. 12A.Module 5037 is mounted in recess 5035 with a pivotable mount 5039, whichallows module 5037 to be rotated relative to rib member 5030. Thisprovides for the ability to direct the light emitted by lamps 5041 inselected directions desired by the user. Module 5037 is conductivelyconnected to an electrical system of the umbrella apparatus, such as bywire 5043 within volume 5033 of rib member 5030. Multiple recesses maybe formed on rib member 5030 to allow for installation of multiplepivotable modules 5037. Additional modules 5037 may be conductivelyconnected using additional wires, such as wire 5045. While preferred, itis not necessary that modules be mounted within recesses 5035, as mount5039 may be installed anywhere along lower wall 5031 of rib member 5030.It should also be noted that modules 5037 may be alternatively bemounted on support struts in recesses or without recesses.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a battery module 6001 is shown installedon a pole 6003 of an umbrella apparatus, like umbrella apparatus 11,described above. Pole 6003 is preferably hollow and tubular, like poleportion 15 described above for umbrella apparatus 11, and is configuredto support an umbrella portion. Battery module 6001, which is preferablywater-resistant, is conductively coupled to and configured for providingelectrical power to devices such as lights, misters, etc., or otherelectrical subsystems as described herein. Battery module 6001 comprisesa battery pack 6005 that is preferably rechargeable and preferablyremovably secured to a base 6007. Base 6007 is preferably formed as aunitary spool-type component and is fixedly mounted to pole 6003. Whenformed as a spool, base 6007 may be installed on pole 6003 by slidingbase 6007 from onto pole 6003 from either end of pole 6003. Battery pack6005 is enclosed within battery module 6001 by a cover 6009 that iscapable of sliding upward along pole 6003 toward and away from base 6007to allow access to battery pack 6005. FIG. 15 shows cover 6009 in theclosed position, and FIG. 16 shows cover 6009 in the open position.Cover 6009 preferably has a means for securing cover 6009 to base 6007,such as a twist-lock or similar means.

Battery pack 6005 comprises a battery mount 6010, to which one or morebatteries 6011 are attached. Batteries 6011 may be secured to mount 6010in any appropriate manner that provides for conductively connectingbatteries 6011 to the electrical systems of the umbrella. For example,batteries 6011 may be retained on mount 6010 using springs, plates, orsimilar devices. In the preferred embodiment, as shown, an upper plate6012 and a lower plate 6013 are used to retain batteries 6011 withinbattery pack 6005, so that pack 6005 may be removed from base 6007 whilebatteries are retained to mount 6010. To reduce the diameter of batterypack 6005, batteries 6011 are preferably oriented to an upright manner,though other configurations may be used. In an alternativeconfiguration, battery module 6001 may be inverted from the orientationshown, so that cover 6009 slides downward from base 6007.

FIGS. 17 and 18 are side views of the assembly of pole 6003 and batterymodule 6001, shown in FIG. 14, with optional lighting systems installedthereon. FIG. 17 shows lighting elements 6015 installed on a lowerportion of base 6007 of battery 6001. Lighting elements 6015 may be ofany type described herein and may be clusters of LEDs. Power foroperation of lighting elements 6015 may be provided directly frombatteries 6019 of module 6001, or electrical power may be routed throughan electrical subsystem to lighting elements 6015. To provide forprotection of elements 6015 and/or for diffusion of light emitted byelements 6015, an elongated lens 6017 is also mounted to a lower portionof base 6007. Lens 6017 is translucent and encircles pole 6003, whichextends through an aperture 6019 at the outer end of lens 6017. Theelongated shape of lens 6017 provides for the emission of light indirections other than in directions generally parallel to the length ofpole 6003. Lens 6017 preferably has a diameter generally equal to thatof battery module 6001, though lens 6017 may alternatively have a largeror smaller diameter.

FIG. 18 shows battery module 6001 with optional lighting systemsinstalled on upper and lower portions of module 6001. As describedabove, lighting elements 6015 and a lens 6017 are installed on base6007, and additional lighting elements 6015 and a second lens 6017 areinstalled on an upper portion of cover 6009. In the preferredembodiment, cover 6009 is capable of sliding along pole 6003 whileelements 6015 and lens 6017 are attached.

Referring now to FIGS. 19 and 20, a battery module 6001 is installed onan upper portion of a crank case 6021, like crank case 44 of opening andclosing system 40 described above, which is mounted on pole 6003. Base6007 of module 6001 is affixed to an upper portion of crank case 6021,and battery pack 6005 is accessible by sliding cover 6009 away from base6007, as shown in FIG. 20. As described above, the diameter of module6001 may be minimized by orienting batteries 6013 in an upright manner,which ensures that module 6001 does not interfere with the rotation ofcrank 6023 of crank case 6021 during operation.

FIGS. 21 through 23 show additional embodiments of the assembly of FIG.19, which include optional lighting elements 6015 and a lens 6017installed on a lower portion of crank case 6021 (FIG. 21), an upperportion of cover 6009 (FIG. 22), and on both of a lower portion of crankcase 6021 and an upper portion of cover 6009 (FIG. 23).

FIGS. 24 through 26 show embodiments in which battery module 6001 isinstalled on a lower portion of crank case 6021. Base 6007 is mounted toa lower portion of crank case 6021, and cover 6009 is capable of slidingdownward away from base 6007 to expose battery pack 6005. Optionallighting elements 6015 and a lens 6017 are shown installed on an upperportion of crank case 6021 (FIG. 25) and on both of an upper portion ofcrank case 6021 and a lower portion of cover 6009 (FIG. 26). Though notshown, lighting elements 6015 and a lens 6017 may alternatively beinstalled only on a lower portion of cover 6009. When installed on alower portion, battery pack 6005 may have a twist-lock or similar meansof attachment, allowing a user to easily install and remove battery pack6005.

As set forth herein, the umbrella apparatus of the subject applicationmay include a variety of electrical opening and closing systems. It willbe appreciated that some of the components for such opening and closingsystems, including electric motors, gears, ball screws, control systems,circuit boards, switches, transmitters, receivers, and the like, may behoused in the crank cases shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 15-34.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are oblique views of an alternative embodiment of abattery module 6025 for an umbrella apparatus, battery module 6025 beinginstalled on pole 6003. A base 6027 is mounted to pole 6003 forsupporting a battery pack 6029, which comprises a battery mount 6031 andmultiple batteries 6033. An upper plate 6034 and a lower plate 6035retain batteries 6033 on mount 6031. A two-piece, clamshell-style cover6036 comprises two halves 6037, 6039 that cooperate to form an enclosurewhen assembled onto base 6027. An aperture 6041 is formed in an endportion of cover 6036 to allow for pole 6003 to pass through cover 6036.Cover halves 6037, 6039 are hingedly attached to one another with hinges6041, which allow for cover 6025 to be removed from base 6027 throughseparation of halves 6037, 6039, as shown in FIG. 28, and reinstalled byreversing the operation. Cover 6036 may be used on battery modules likethose described above and may be especially useful when an item locatednear a battery module prevents the module cover from sliding a distancesufficient to allow for access to the battery pack.

FIGS. 29 and 30 are oblique views of an alternative embodiment of abattery module 6043 for an umbrella apparatus, battery module 6043 beinginstalled on pole 6003. A base 6045 is mounted to pole 6003 forsupporting a battery pack 6047, which comprises a battery mount 6049 andmultiple batteries 6051. An upper plate 6053 and a lower plate 6055retain batteries 6051 on mount 6049. A two-piece, clamshell-style cover6057 comprises two halves 6059, 6061 that cooperate to form an enclosurewhen assembled onto base 6045. Upper plate 6053 has multiple lightingelements 6063, which may be of any type described herein, in an array onan upper surface of upper plate 6053. To provide for protection ofelements 6063 and/or for diffusion of light emitted by elements 6063, anelongated lens 6065 is also mounted to an upper surface of upper plate6053. Lens 6065 is translucent and encircles pole 6003, which extendsthrough an aperture 6067 at the outer end of lens 6065. To allow forcover 6057 to be installed, an aperture 6069 is formed in an end portionof cover 6057 to allow for cover 6057 to encircle a lower end of lens6065 and lighting elements 6063. Cover halves 6059, 6061 are hingedlyattached to one another with hinges 6071, which allow for cover 6057 tobe removed from base 6045 through separation of halves 6059, 6061, asshown in FIG. 30, and reinstalled by reversing the operation. As notedabove, cover 6057 may especially useful when an item located near abattery module prevents the module cover from sliding a distancesufficient to allow for access to the battery pack.

FIGS. 31 and 32 are oblique views of an alternative embodiment of abattery module 6073 for an umbrella apparatus, battery module 6073 beinginstalled on pole 6003. A base 6075 is mounted to pole 6003 forsupporting a battery pack 6077, which comprises a battery mount 6079 andmultiple batteries 6081. An upper plate 6083 and a lower plate 6085retain batteries 6081 on mount 6079. A two-piece, clamshell-style cover6087 comprises two halves 6089, 6091 that cooperate to form an enclosurewhen assembled onto base 6075. Upper plate 6083 has multiple lightingelements 6093, which may be of any type described herein, in an array onan upper surface of upper plate 6083. To provide for protection ofelements 6093 and/or for diffusion of light emitted by elements 6093, anelongated lens 6095 is mounted to an upper end of cover 6087. Lens 6095is translucent and encircles pole 6003, which extends through anaperture 6097 at the outer end of lens 6095. Lens 6095 comprises twohalves 6099, 6101, each half 6099, 6101 being attached to one of halves6089, 6091 of cover 6087. To allow for cover 6087 to be installed, anaperture 6103 is formed in an end portion of cover 6087 to allow forcover 6087 to encircle lighting elements 6093. Cover halves 6089, 6091are hingedly attached to one another with hinges 6105, which allow forcover 6087 to be removed from base 6075 through separation of halves6089, 6091, as shown in FIG. 32, and reinstalled by reversing theoperation.

FIG. 33 shows an alternative embodiment of a battery module 6107 mountedto a pole 6003. A battery pack 6109 comprises multiple batteries 6111,which are located between an upper plate 6113 and a lower plate 6115,and pack 6109 is mounted to a base 6117. To retain batteries 6111 withinpack 6109, pairs of pinch-type retainers 6119 are provided for eachbattery 6111. Retainers 6119 are preferably formed from an elasticallydeformable material, so that batteries 6111 may be snapped into positionbetween the retainers 6119 of each pair by spreading paired retainers6119 away from each other. To remove each battery 6111, a user mustsimply pull on battery 6111 to again outwardly deform retainers 6119,allowing the selected battery 6111 to be removed from battery pack 6109.It should be noted that retainers 6119 may be used on any of theembodiments described above, where appropriate, instead of using theupper and lower plates to retain the batteries in the battery pack.

FIG. 34 shows an alternative embodiment of a battery module 6121 mountedto a pole 6003. A battery pack 6123 comprises multiple batteries 6125,which are located between an upper plate 6127 and a lower plate 6129,and pack 6123 is mounted to a base 6131. A two-piece clamshell cover6133 comprises two halves 6135, 6137, and each half 6135, 6137 has onehalf 6139, 6141, respectively, of an end plate. The end plate has anaperture 6143 that encircles pole 6003 when cover 6133 is installed onmodule 6121, as shown above for other embodiments. When cover isinstalled, an inner surface of each end plate half 6139, 6141 sealsagainst an o-ring 6145 located on an upper surface of upper plate 6127.O-ring 6145 is configured to prevent or minimize entry of water or otherliquids into battery module 6121 through aperture 6143. This may occur,for example, through rainwater running down pole 6003 toward module6121.

In the event that a liquid does leak past o-ring 6145, module 6121 has adrainage system to route liquid out of module 6121 without contactingelectrical components. Upper plate 6127 has at least one aperture 6147that opens to a fluid passage 6149 extending through plate 6127. A tube6151 located between some of batteries 6125 connects passage 6149 ofupper plate 6127 to a similar passage 6153 in lower plate 6129. Passage6153 is connected to a fluid passage 6155 in base 6131, and passage 6155terminates in a drain aperture 6157. The configuration allows for liquidto pass from the upper surface of upper plate 6127, through passage6149, through tube 6151, through passage 6153, and through passage 6155before exiting base 6131 at aperture 6157. It should be noted that thedrainage system may be used, where appropriate, on any of theembodiments described above.

It should be noted that retainers 6119 may be used on any of theembodiments described above, where appropriate, instead of using theupper and lower plates to retain the batteries in the battery pack.

To allow for user control over the operation of the various electricalsystems or components, such as lights, battery packs, audio systems,misting systems, etc., of the umbrella apparatus, switches, remotecontrol systems, and/or programmable or automated control systems,including photo cells and other sensors, may be utilized.

Referring again to FIGS. 15 through 18, an optional switch 7001 is shownon base 6007. Switch 7001 may be of any appropriate type, such aspush-button, rocker, or toggle. While shown as being located on base6007, switch 7001 may be located on other areas of battery module 6001or of the umbrella apparatus. Switch 7001 may be used to control theflow of electrical energy from or to battery module 6001 and/or may beused to control other systems or components of the umbrella apparatus.FIG. 18 shows an optional additional switch 7001 mounted to cover 6009,and switches 7001 may, for example, be each be used to operate one ofthe upper and lower sets of lighting elements 6015.

In addition, a remote-control system 7003 is shown installed in base6007. Remote-control system 7003 may operate in a manner such as thatdescribed above for wireless receiver 706 and wireless transmitter 708,and system 7003 may use infra-red, radio-frequency, or other appropriatemethods of transmitting or receiving wireless signals. While shown asbeing located on base 6007, system 7003 may be located on other areas ofbattery module 6001 or of the umbrella apparatus. System 7003 may beused to control the flow of electrical energy from or to battery module6001 and/or may be used to control other systems or components of theumbrella apparatus.

Referring again to FIGS. 19 through 26, optional switches 7005 are showninstalled on crank case 6021, and switches 7005 may be used to controloperation of battery module 6001 or any connected system or component,such as lighting elements 6015. In addition, an optional remote-controlsystem 7007 is shown installed in crank case 6021, system 7007 beingsimilar or identical to system 7003, described above. System 7007 mayalso or alternatively be used to control operation of battery module6001 or any connected system or component.

Referring again to FIGS. 27 and 28, an optional switch 7009 andremote-control system 7011 are shown installed in base 6027. Like thosedescribed above, switch 7009 and system 7011 may be used to controloperation of battery module 6025 or any connected system or component.

It should be understood that in all of the embodiments disclosed herein,and in particular, in the embodiments of FIGS. 15-34, the batteries maybe held in place with conductive springs, clips, and other types ofsuitable contacts, retainers, and fasteners. The electrical contacts maybe formed from conductors that slide onto the upper and lower plates.

It will be appreciated that the battery packs of the embodiments ofFIGS. 15-34, including the upper plates and the lower plates, may beformed as two-piece spool-shaped housings.

It should be noted that all of the alternative or optional featuresdescribed herein for any one embodiment may be incorporated, whereappropriate, into any of the embodiments shown and/or described. Forexample, various means of retaining batteries, as described forparticular embodiments, may be used for any other embodiment where theuse is appropriate. Likewise, for example, any stacking configuration ofbattery packs, lenses, and/or crank housings may be used, as well assliding or clamshell covers.

Although illustrative embodiments have been described, this descriptionis not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modificationsof the disclosed embodiments as well as alternative embodiments of theinvention will become apparent to persons skilled in the art uponreference to the description of the invention. For example, theelectrical power systems described above may provide power to electricaldevices providing functions one or more systems, including a lightingsystem, a cooling system, a motorized actuation system, a heatingsystem, an audio system, a video system, and an infrared system. It istherefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover any suchmodifications or embodiments that fall within the scope of thisspecification.

1. An umbrella apparatus, comprising: a pole portion; a canopy portionhingedly coupled to the pole portion, the canopy portion having aplurality of support ribs and a plurality of support struts; and atleast one lamp module mounted to the canopy portion, each lamp modulehaving a plurality of light emitting diodes, each light emitting diodebeing aimed in a selected fixed direction, at least one of the lightemitting diodes being aimed in a direction that is not normal to thesupport rib to which the lamp module is mounted.
 2. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the orientation of the at leastone lamp module is adjustable relative to the canopy portion.
 3. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lampmodule is mounted to one of the support ribs.
 4. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 3, wherein the at least one lamp module is at leastpartially recessed within the support rib.
 5. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one lamp module is mounted toa side wall of one of the support ribs.
 6. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one lamp module is mounted toone of the support struts.
 7. The umbrella apparatus according to claim6, wherein the at least one lamp module is at least partially recessedwithin the support strut.
 8. The umbrella apparatus according to claim1, wherein the at least one lamp module is mounted a side wall of one ofthe support struts.
 9. An umbrella apparatus, comprising: a poleportion; a canopy portion hingedly coupled to the pole portion, thecanopy portion having a plurality of support ribs and a plurality ofsupport struts; and a battery module installed around the pole portion,the battery module having multiple batteries arranged in an array aboutthe pole portion; wherein the battery module includes an upper plate anda lower plate that cooperate to retain the batteries in the batterymodule.
 10. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 9, furthercomprising: a removable cover for enclosing the batteries.
 11. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the removable covertranslates coaxially with the pole.
 12. The umbrella apparatus accordingto claim 10, wherein the removable cover is a removable clamshell-typecover.
 13. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 9, furthercomprising: a lighting system carried by the battery module.
 14. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: a crankcase for use in opening and closing the canopy portion, the batterymodule being mounted to the crank case.
 15. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 14, further comprising: a plurality of lightingelements carried by the crank case.
 16. The umbrella apparatus accordingto claim 14, further comprising: a translucent lens member coupled tothe crank case for enclosing the lighting elements.
 17. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 9, wherein the battery module is atwo-piece spool-shaped module.
 18. The umbrella apparatus according toclaim 9, wherein the battery module is a one-piece spool-shaped module.19. An umbrella apparatus, comprising: a pole portion; a canopy portionhingedly coupled to the pole portion, the canopy portion having aplurality of support ribs and a plurality of support struts; and a crankcase for use in opening and closing the canopy portion, the crank casehaving an upper portion and a lower portion; a battery module coupled tothe upper portion of the crank case, the battery module being disposedabout the pole portion, the battery module having multiple batteriesarranged in an array about the pole portion; a first set of lightemitting diodes disposed on the lower portion of the crank case; and afirst translucent lens member releasably coupled to the crank case forenclosing the first set of light emitting diodes.
 20. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 19, further comprising: a second set oflight emitting diodes carried by the battery module; and a secondtranslucent lens member releasably coupled to the battery module forenclosing the second set of light emitting diodes.